West Virginian Hero

West Virginian Mountaineer, hill country free, Born down in a holler to folks of dirt po means. Heard wind blow wave ‘er wave o’er regal mountain peaks. Fed on cornpone, biscuits, country gravy, and beans. White mist over each peak a crown of majesty. In rich valley below, unique person dwelt. Admired sprawling mountaineer family tree. Anyone not ‘bon up ’thar in the hills was suspect. Ran like a deer, strong as a bear, eyes like a hawk. Had speck of earth’s riches: smidgen from modern store. Used outhouse year 'round, often times in the dark! Worldly things rated low; Evermore got high score. Shot rifle straight as an arrow flying through the air, As ray of sunshine finds its way through leafy trees. Had the stealth of bobcat leaving his secret lair, Could seek up on someone; unaware presence there. Honored no pass signs around moonshiner’s grove. Words sounded odd to some; "Whar, thar, airish out ‘har. Folks growed "tabaccer, lit oil lamp and wood stove. Misjudged as brainless; mind could ace lawyer’s bar. Volunteered one day while wearing worn out jeans. Proud to be a soldier, as ancestry of yore. Eager to serve country; had just turned nineteen. Sent off to hostile land; part of medical corps. Ten soldiers died when compound was hit one night. Each one was honored; a national hero. Military honors; flags, taps, and over flights. One from West Virginia; Marine, Megan Marlow.